How to Find a High End Custom Home Builder
When constructing a high-end custom home, the selection of the right builder for your project should be viewed as an essential part of the process. No matter what type of home you’re planning on it’s very important that you deal with a skilled and reputable building company which has a reputation for quality work.
Do Your Research
One of the best ways to compile a list of local builders is to perform an internet search. You can look at Google Reviews, as well as other review sources such as Homestars, Yelp and Houzz to see what past customers have to say about each home builder. In addition, you may be able to get some references from local real estate agents, family members, friends, colleagues and co-workers etc.
Once you have a list you can visit the builders’ websites to get an idea of the type of work they do and their portfolio of past projects. . Look for reviews and testimonials and gather as much information as possible. It may seem like a lot of work when trying to narrow things down, especially if you have a long list of potential builders. But remember, you’re entrusting them with the construction of your home, which could very well be the biggest investment you’ll make in your lifetime.
Be sure the homebuilder is in good standing with whatever industry associations that govern the industry in their area.
Ask Lots of Questions
Don’t be afraid to ask potential builders any questions you may have and you should also ask for references and to see some of their previous work such as a portfolio. If they fail to provide any of these you may want to skip down to the next person or company on the list.
If references are provided it’s a good idea to drive by homes the builder has constructed in the past and speak with the homeowners if possible. This will give you an inside view on what it’s like to work with the builder and if any problems arose during the construction of their homes.
Many homeowners take this recommendation with a grain of salt as they realize builders aren’t going to give the names of dissatisfied customers as references. Therefore, if you’re able to find out which local homes the company has erected you may get a more accurate picture of the builder by speaking with the homeowners.
Most people will be glad to share their experiences with you and inform you what they did and didn’t like about the builder. One of the key questions to ask a homeowner is if they would work with the builder again.
When looking over a home, be sure to examine the construction quality of items such as trim work, painting, cabinetry and flooring etc as well as anything else you can think of. Again, don’t be shy when it comes to asking tough questions and taking notes.
Some of the questions you may want to ask should regard things such as warranties, cost, timeline, how long have they been in business and how many homes do they build a year. You can also ask about their design and building process as well as if they anticipate any challenges during the construction and how they would deal with them.
Simple questions will typically lead to further questions and conversations which may reveal important information about the builder and their methods. It will also give you a good idea about their communication skills.
Once you decide on a builder for your home be sure to read the contract thoroughly and have a lawyer go through it before signing anything. Don’t add your signature if you’re not clear about anything or are having second thoughts. A good custom home builder will be open and transparent, explaining everything in plain language.
Building a new custom home doesn’t have to be an overwhelming process and it usually isn’t as long as you’re working with a dependable and professional builder. Your home building experience can certainly be a positive one if you’re working hand in hand with a trustworthy and skilled builder with a strong reputation.
About Novacon Construction
Novacon Construction is a custom home builder based in Toronto. We have a reputation for high quality workmanship and stellar communications with clients. We serve the entire GTA and offer free consultations. Contact us today to learn more.
Experience the difference of what working with a real client-centric contractor specialist feels like.
- The Benefits of Home a Renovation in Toronto’s Competitive Real Estate Market - March 12, 2023
- 5 Popular Home Renovation Projects in Toronto - March 12, 2023
- How to Choose the Right Contractor for Your Toronto Home Renovation - February 15, 2023
